Gung Hay Fat Choy!

That's Cantonese for Happy New Year!

We are at the close of the Chinese New Year celebrations and we finished with a big FCC party. It was a great afternoon with friends and meeting new folks.

Of course, the big attraction was the Lion Dance and it is definitely a treat to get to see one up close and personal-- although, Josie Dong Dong could have done without it being quite so close and personal.




























Josie was ready to hit the road when she the Lion coming toward us. All of the kids are provided a red envelope with money to feed the Lion, but Josie decided to hold on tight to hers. She prefers to feed her Hello Kitty bank at home.















After the Lion Dance we enjoyed hanging out with some of our friends and eating yummy Chinese food catered by a local restaurant.

"Is the food coming soon?"

Josie, Angeline, and Baby Grace found some time to hit the dance floor and chase each other around a bit.




After everyone had eaten the Lion Dancers brought out the Lion costume and offered for the kids to come and see it closer. Some of the girls even got a chance to dance with it on.


"I'm not going to look."

"It's right behind us isn't it? Don't move!"

It was a very busy weekend because this weekend also marked Xavier's 11th birthday. As Wim put it, he is now starting his 2nd decade of life.

Friday-night was lots of fun. We had a yummy Taco dinner and watched Xavier open his presents. He got lots of cool games for his Wii.































It was a great night filled with laughter and excitement. Even the cat was excited.













"Yeah, this is me--- ecstatic."




















Gabrielle had fun with Josie by holding a Spongebob face in front of Josie at the table.









On Saturday, Xavier had a few friends over to celebrate his birthday. They spent some time building lego forts in Xavier's room and playing Wii. Gabrielle was able to invite one friend over so she wouldn't get to overpowered by all the boys.




























Wim took all the kids tubing at little ski resort nearby-- this is RI so, well, you know. But, the kids had fun. Sorry no pictures-- Wim forgot to take the camera.

So that is it for this weekend and for our first Chinese New Year. It sure was a great one and we can't wait to celebrate the holiday again NEXT YEAR!

"GUNG HAY FAT CHOY!"